🟢 Regulation: IMO MSC.81(70), Part 1, paragraph 1.5
🟢 Purpose: To ensure that the lifebuoy material will not ignite or support combustion when exposed to an open flame.
🗣 How the Test is Performed
1️⃣ Preparation
- A lifebuoy is taken from a sample batch.
- Its condition is inspected and recorded before the test.
2️⃣ Flame Exposure
- The lifebuoy is brought to an open flame (usually a gas burner or flame on a test rig).
- The flame contact time is at least 2 seconds.
3️⃣ Observation
- After the flame is removed, the lifebuoy is carefully inspected.
- Check:
- Whether the material has ignited;
- Does the fire continue to burn after the fire source is removed;
- Is there any melting or excessive damage?
🗣 Success Criteria
✅ The lifebuoy did not ignite.
✅ Burning does not continue after the fire is removed.
✅ The material has not lost its integrity or functionality.
🗣 Why is this important?
- In the event of a fire on board the vessel or a release of flammable vapors, the lifebuoy may be exposed to an open flame.
- If the lifebuoy catches fire, not only will it not save the person, but it will also become an additional hazard.
- Therefore, the IMO requires that all lifebuoys be fire-tested.
⚠️ Result: The fire test confirms that the life preserver will not ignite after brief contact with flame and remains suitable for rescue.
💡Want to learn more and work confidently? Then take the course: 3rd Officer: Practical Course.
➡️Contact the manager for details: @Seamens_Club_Ukraine
Seamen’s Club 🇺🇦 | #education